Living & Working in La Crosse
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $273,000 . Buying analysis suggests favorable conditions for long-term residents.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
Riverside North
URBANSouth Side
SUBURBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in La Crosse, WI
- School District of Onalaska: Ranked #1 in here County by Niche.
- Holmen School District: Known for strong academic programs and extracurriculars.
- West Salem School District: Highly rated for student-teacher ratios and college readiness.
Childcare Costs in La Crosse, WI
- Daycare: Average cost is approximately $800–$1,200/month for full-time care, based on Care.com.
- Nanny: Rates average $15–$20/hour, translating to $2,400–$3,200/month for full-time care (40 hours/week).
Recommended Pediatricians and Family Clinics
- Gundersen Health System Pediatrics: Located at 1900 South Ave., La Crosse (Website).
- Mayo Clinic Health System - Pediatrics: Offers comprehensive care in Onalaska (
Work-Life Balance Culture in La Crosse, WI
here is known for its balanced lifestyle, blending small-town charm with urban amenities. The city's proximity to the Mississippi River and surrounding bluffs encourages outdoor activities, contributing to a relaxed pace. Employers often emphasize flexible schedules, particularly in healthcare and education sectors, which dominate the local economy. The University of Wisconsin-the area also fosters a vibrant, youthful energy.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- YMCA of La Crosse (laxymca.org): Offers memberships starting at $45/month.
- Planet Fitness (planetfitness.com): $10/month for basic access.
- Parks & Trails:
- Grandad Bluff Park: Features hiking trails with panoramic views of the city.
- Riverside Park: A 10-acre park along the Mississippi River, ideal for walking and cycling.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $8–$12 at casual spots like The Root Note (therootnote.com).
- Dinner: $15–$25 at mid-range restaurants like **
Financial Facts for La Crosse, WI
- State Income Tax Rate: Wisconsin's individual income tax rates range from 3.50% to 7.65%, depending on marital status and income. For specific details, refer to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
- Property Tax Average: The average effective property tax rate in Wisconsin is 1.59%, ranking among the highest in the U.S. La Crosse County's rates align closely with this state average. More information is available via SmartAsset.
- Cost of Living Comparison: La Crosse's cost of living is approximately 10% lower than nearby Madison, WI, primarily due to lower housing and utility costs. For detailed comparisons, visit MoneyGeek.
- Growing Industries: Construction is the fastest-growing sector in La Crosse, adding 259 jobs (10.0% growth) from 2018 to 2023. Kwik Trip's $151 million expansion in the area is also driving job creation. Learn more from the [here County Profile](https://jobcenterofwisconsin.com/wisconomy/wits_info/downloads/CP/la_crosse_profile.pdf